Latest News for Cars, Trucks &amp SUVs

Tag Archives: jeep

Last April, automotive fans were treated to the unveiling of the Jeep Yuntu concept vehicle at the Shanghai Auto Show. The auto features a hybrid powertrain with a lot of passenger capacity. Recently, a camouflaged prototype of the SUV’s production version was seen while it was undergoing testing at a Fiat Chrysler Automobiles facility.

Design is Very Much Like the Concept Model

Looking at the spy shots shown by Autoblog, the prototype for the Jeep Yuntu production version appears to remain true to its concept form. The shape of the spied auto’s roof, hood, doors, grille and rear are very much similar to the unit displayed in Shanghai.

The Yuntu boasts a long wheelbase. It utilizes a stretched version of the Cherokee’s Compact U.S. Wide (CUSW) platform. Then, it offers three-rows of seats that can accommodate up to seven people.

It is definitely a large SUV. However, judging from the prototype’s low approach and departure angles as well as the choice of wheels, it looks like it is not built for serious off-roading.

Is It Keeping the Hybrid Powertrain?

So far, we are quite unsure yet if the prototype we are seeing here is equipped with a plug-in hybrid powertrain like its concept variant. It should be noted though that the Yuntu is initially planned as a China exclusive product of Jeep. If that’s the case, it might get a hybrid setup afterall in order to go in line with the Chinese government’s goal of curbing pollution in the country.

It is hard to make out what is inside the vehicle too, but it is expected to remain faithful to its preview in China, which shows a futuristic approach. It should be recalled that the interior of the concept version of the vehicle is adorned with LCD screens behind its seats and in the dashboard.

Jeep Yuntu Spy Photos

Check out the new spy shots of the Jeep Yuntu prototype in the gallery below:

The Porsche 597 Jagdwagen was a limited edition vehicle. It was designed as a “hunting car.” It was light, thanks to its simplistic engineering, but the unit may cost more than a quarter of a million dollars nowadays.

According to Autoweek, the 2019 Cayenne traces its roots back to the Porsche 597 Jagdwagen. The name of the vehicle roughly means “hunting car”. The auto was made during a NATO competition to create a light army-transport vehicle similar to the American-made Jeep.

The Jagdwagen had a small design with a removable canvas roofing. It ran on a 4×4 drivetrain and powered by a rear-mounted, air-cooled, four-cylinder Porsche 356 engine. There were two power units available for the auto. One was a 1.5-liter engine and the other was 1.6-liter engine.

The more powerful 1.6-liter engine model of the 597 that was introduced in its later production stage was capable of producing up to 50 hp. All that power was distributed via a five-speed manual gearbox, which was a lot during its time. The top speed of the hunting car was at 62 mph.

The source said that the Jagdwagen only weighed 2,182 pounds, which made it highly maneuverable. It could switch between a two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive setup on the fly. It had a climb gradient of 65 percent and it can float on water, making it amphibious.

Unfortunately, after spending $1.8 million for the development of the 597, which was too much during the 50’s, Porsche lost the NATO contest to DKW Munga. However, the automaker wanted to capitalize on the project after their failed entry by rebranding the light vehicle as a hunting car.

The Jagdwagen was produced from 1955 to 1957. Only 71 examples of it were ever made. At present, only 15 of it survived the test of time.

The report claimed that the 1957 model of the 597 in the pictures below was sold at the Bonhams’ Goodwood auction last year for $235,331. Earlier that same year, the Jagdwagen sold as a 1958 year model previously owned by Jerry Seinfield fetched $330,000 at an Amelia Island auction.

The new JL-series Wrangler will be introduced in November 2017 at the Los Angeles Auto Show, and is expected to be in dealerships by December of the same year. This 2018 Jeep Wrangler model will have three new power options customers can choose from, including a diesel engine that will surely be the favorite for so many.

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles held a meeting with select Jeep dealers this week for the new model, making the information about the three powertrains available for us.

1. Inline-4 Engine

During the launch in November 2017, there will be two powertrain options instantly available for customers. The standard option will be a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine, which has already been confirmed as early as last year. Reports and estimations indicate that the engine will be able to produce as much as 300 horses. It will be paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.

2. V-6 Engine

The second power option in the launch would be an upgraded version of the 3.6-liter V-6 engine, which is in the current Jeep Wrangler. It has an output of 285 horsepower, but that would be significantly boosted in the 2019 Jeep Wrangler. Those who will prefer the V-6 engine can pair it up with either a manual or automatic transmission, though the automatic one would probably the choice for most drivers.

3. Diesel Engine

Finally, the most important tidbit of information we got is that the third powertrain option would be a diesel engine. This would be introduced in 2019 the earliest, but there could be a couple of adjustments because the diesel option in discussion is the 3.0-liter turbocharged V-6 that FCA has been having trouble with because of emissions. There are also some rumors that the DEF (Diesel Exhaust Fluid) tanks, which were used to reduce nitrogen oxides in diesel vehicles, would be fitted in the new Wrangler.

There are no news yet on how many horses the diesel engine can produce for the Wrangler, but if it’s any indication, the Jeep Grand Cherokee had 240 horsepower. It will be possibly paired with an automatic transmission.

Spy Shots

Check out the spy shots of the 2018 Jeep Wrangler taken by Motor Authority in the gallery below:

New spy shots of the 2018 Jeep Cherokee emerged online once more. This time, the prototype seems to be shedding more of its camouflage, which gives us a better idea of what to look forward to in the vehicle.

Here’s what the new spy shots and reports revealed to us about the new Cherokee:

1. Design

The new Cherokee seems to be a mere update of its current generation model. The same form and body lines that adorned the existing model of the vehicle were carried to the upcoming SUV. However, the covered areas of the 2018 version of the auto hint where the major updates will take place.

Basing from the camouflaged portions of the new Cherokee, it will get redesigned bumpers and lighting. On the other hand, the wraps in the grille and rear hatch might not necessarily mean restyling. Instead, the covered areas likely hide the real identity of the vehicle before its official unveiling.

2. Engine

Information about the new Cherokee remain heavily guarded. According to the source though, the SUV will probably be equipped with Jeep’s new petrol-fed 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which will also be utilized by the new Wrangler.

The post added it is possible too that Jeep will carry over the current 2.4-liter four-cylinder, 3.2-liter V6 and 2.0-liter turbo-diesel four-cylinder engines of the Cherokee for the updated model. The engines might be reconfigured to offer a boost in their outputs.

At present, the four cylinder unit produces 130 kW and 299 Nm of torque. The V6 has 200 kW and 316 Nm of torque. The four-cylinder diesel gives off 125 kW and 350 Nm of torque.

3. High-Performance Model

There are rumors that a high-performance version of the 2018 Cherokee will follow in the form of a Trackhawk model.

4. Arrival

The 2018 Cherokee is expected to be unveiled at the Los Angeles Auto Show in December.

Spy Shots

The Jeep Wrangler sports a classic, rugged and unique look combined with reliability and performance even on rough roads. The said features allowed it to survive the market since it came into production in 1986. Recently, a new model of the vehicle was spotted and spy shots of it were taken.

According to Car and Driver, which is the source of the latest spy shots, the new Wrangler will be unveiled before 2017 ends. The auto will be sold under a 2018 model year. It is estimated to cost near the $25,090 price tag of its current model.

1. Engine

The report claimed that the 2018 Wrangler will be available in diesel and hybrid versions. The vehicle was confirmed to get a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine. There are no details yet about the possible output of the auto but the source mentioned that it will take either an eight-speed automatic transmission or six-speed manual gearbox.

It added that the new Wrangler will be available in a four-wheel drive system with manually-operated transfer case. There is also a possibility that the upcoming Jeep will offer a turbocharged four-cylinder engine unit before the diesel and hybrid powertrains arrive.

2. Body

The 2018 Wrangler is expected to carry a new platform, which will be lighter than the one supporting the current model because of its more use of aluminum. The auto will have two-door, four-door and pickup designs.

3. Interior

The multimedia console of the Wrangler will receive significant upgrades. The infotainment touchscreen in high trim models will have better response and easier to operate, thanks to its Uconnect 3.0. Moreover, the article estimated that the touchscreen of the auto will measure 8.4 inches diagonally for the high-end units while the lower end trims will have the 5.0-inch screen.

Furthermore, there appears to be updated climate control system for the new Wrangler plus sound system controls as well as parking assist sensors, start-stop function for the engine, and heaters for the steering wheel.

Photos

Check out the spy shots of the 2018 Jeep Wrangler in the gallery below:

Earlier, we have discussed how automotive experts wanted the 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon banned from the roads. They are worried that its ridiculously high output might trigger reckless drivers. That is subject for debate though.

For now, let us take a look at where the Dodge Demon falls under the 5 most powerful American cars and sport utility vehicles today based on an article from Fox News Auto.

1. 2018 Dodge Challenger SRT Demon

Unsurprisingly, the Demon falls into first place, thanks to its 6.2-liter V8 engine that can produce up to 808 hp. As if that’s not yet high enough, the source said that pumping the vehicle with 100 octane race gas can raise its output to 840 hp.

2. Dodge Challenger/Charger SRT Hellcat

The Hellcats each carry a 6.2-liter V8 unit. The engine packs 707 hp. The Challenger model is capable of getting a top speed of 199 mph while the more aerodynamically-built Charger can take up to 204 mph.

3. 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk

The Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk is considered as the most powerful in the SUV segment. The auto shares the same engine as the Hellcat, which is good for 707 hp. The vehicle only falls a bit short in the torque department compared to the Hellcat. The Trackhawk has 645 lb-ft of torque while the Hellcat has 650 lb-ft. The SUV also boasts an all-wheel drive system.

4. 2014 Ford Mustang Shelby GT500

The Ford Mustang Shelby GT500 packs a 5.8-liter supercharged V8 engine. The output of the unit is 662 hp and it can reach up to 202 mph.

5. 2018 Chevrolet Camaro Z06/Camaron ZL1

Tying in the fifth place of this list are the Chevrolet Camaro Z06 and the Camaro ZL1. Each car is equipped with 6.2-liter supercharged V8 with 650 hp. The ZL1 has faster shift times than the Z06 though as it has a 10-speed automatic gearbox compared to its sibling’s eight-speed unit.

The emergence of crossovers and SUVs is a matter of practicality for most Americans. Since they can haul more people and have better space than sedans, crossovers and SUVs have obviously become a favorite for many Americans.

It’s no surprise that manufacturers are adding sportiness and sexiness to these compact vehicles to widen the genre and market reach.

Mild Facelift For 2014 SRT

The model first came to consciousness as a 420-horsepower Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8, which ran from 2006 to 2011. The second generation came about in 2012. It was a 470-horsepower machine with an abbreviated SRT suffix. By 2014, it received a mild facelift, as well as a new eight-speed automatic transmission with launch control.

Since that year, it received an update of five more horsepower and 5 lb-ft of torque for a grand total of 475 and 470, respectively. This 2017, the Grand Cherokee SRT will undergo slight touchups cosmetically.

Handsome And Luxurious Interior

In the past, the Grand Cherokee SRT couldn’t win comparison tests because its interiors are basic and unassuming. Compared with other vehicles with this much power in the market, the Grand Cherokee SRT would feel like one of your everyday cars.

This year, the Grand Cherokee SRT has been fitted with saddle-colored hides, microsuede leather headliner, carbon-fiber trim, and a batch of other options, most of which come with a hefty price tag. You can opt for these: a panoramic sunroof ($2095), a dual-screen rear-seat entertainment system ($1995), and a premium audio system (also $1995).

You may also get it with a trailer-tow package for $995, as well as an $895 set of Pirelli P Zero Run Flat summer tires in $1295 set of 20-inch wheels, and $1295 Brembo brake calipers,

Speed And Power Like No Other

The Jeep’s engine can go 60 mph in just 4.4 seconds. If you want to go 30-to-50 mph, that would be 2.9 seconds while 50 to 70 took 3.2 seconds. These aren’t astounding numbers, but the best thing about the Grand Cherokee SRT is that you won’t feel just how fast you’re going. It has such a good suspension system that handling it is such a breeze.

Photos

The Compass has always been Jeep’s nominee to the compact crossover segment, challenging the likes of Honda CR-V (a beast in this segment) and the 2017 Ford Escape.

After having a bit of a design update in 2011, the second-generation of the Jeep Compass for the 2017 model year finally made its debut during the 2016 Los Angeles Auto Show.

The new design for this 2018 Jeep Compass brings to mind the likes of the Cherokee on the front end, the Renegade on the D-pillar, and the Cherokee again on the wheel arches. Certainly, the Compass’ second generation looks very much mature unlike the previous one. The biggest change on the front are the HID projector bim headlights, LED daytime running lights, and the lower-placed fog lights.

At the back, the new Compass has an “attractive rump” with clear-lens taillights, deeply scalloped tailgate, chrome-accent strips, and twin exhaust pipes on the Limited trim. According to Jeep, 65 percent of the Compass’ chassis is made of high-strength steel.

The seats are made of two-tone leather with red contrast stitching, although black leather is also available. The second row can seat two passengers, or three in a pinch.

Expect the new Compass to sell for around $21,000.

Competition

Below are the close rivals of the Jeep Compass, according to TopSpeed:

Honda CR-V

As the undisputed king of the compact crossover segment, the CR-V offers on-road comfort, great ground clearance, roomy interior, and an attractive exterior. For the 2017, the CR-V is longer, wider, and taller than other cars in the same segment. Pricing for the 2016 model is at $26,000 and it is unlikely Honda will change that for 2017.

2017 Ford Escape

For 2017, Ford gave the escape a more mature look without losing its functionality. It offers seating for five, and is available in AWD with three engine options—the base 2.5-liter four, the 1.5-liter EcoBoost, and the 2.0-liter EcoBoost. Prices for the 2017 Ford Escape start at $27,700.

The Jeep brand introduced the all-new Jeep Compass in Brazil. It was just in time for the celebration of the start of production at FCA’s Jesp Assembly Plant in Goiana, Pernambuco.

The Jeep Compass was launched as a global all-new compact sport utility vehicle. It was produced with 17 fuel-efficient powertrain options for consumers spread across more than 100 countries around the world.

The introduction of the all-new Jeep Compass expands the brand’s global reach, thanks to the combination of features including what is now considered a “legendary” and “best-in-class” 4×4 off-road capability, as well as advanced fuel-efficient powertrains, premium and authentic Jeep design, open-air freedom, superior, on-road driving dynamics, and several safety and advanced technology offers.

But for the US, we are expecting a two-engine mix with either a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder or a 2.4-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder as the base motor. The uplevel choice is going to be Jeep’s upcoming 2.0-liter turbocharged Hurricane four-cylinder.

Both the front- and all-wheel drive will be available for the Jeep Compass. The Renegade variant has a manual option while the Cherokee is only available in automatic transmission. For the Compass, there’s no word yet on whether such a transmission will be offered.

On the outside, the Compass looks more like the Grand Cherokee than the Renegade.

This redesigned small crossover was built on the Small Wide platform that was also used for the Fiat 500X and Jeep Renegade. This “trucklet” was meant to fit in between the Tonka-toy Renegade and the landshark-go Cherokee.

This all-new Jeep Compass is being considered as the most capable compact SUV. It will be available in North America in the first quarter of 2017. For additional and more detailed images and information about the Jeep Compass, wait for the vehicle’s North American debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November.

Every car in the Jeep range gets its own special 75th Anniversary Edition, but nothing is more interesting than the Jeep Wrangler’s version.

By far, it’s the closest in style to the military style reminiscent of Willys off-roader that kicked off the brand’s story in 1941. After the Land Rover Defender, the Jeep Wrangler is the most classic and iconic vehicle coming out of that era.

You may want a brand new car, but that doesn’t mean this special edition Jeep Wrangler won’t attract your eyes. More than comfort, luxury and other technological necessities we find in cars today, Jeep Wrangler prioritizes off-road ability, making it the ideal companion for outdoor trips and sporting activities.

According to Top Gear, the 75th Anniversary Edition will come with an array of features—the option of the new paint finish, Sarge Green, 18-inch alloy wheels, limited-slip differentials, leather seats and a new sat nav and premium sound system.

Inside, it’s easy to see that the Jeep Wrangler did not put comfort over function. It has chunky buttons, hardy plastics and a very upright driving position. This simplicity is a welcome sight, though, as it provides the functionality we all need from a vehicle.

But if you’re the kind who likes to fiddle with all the features a car maker can chunk into an SUV, then you’ll be wrong to go with the Jeep Wrangler. This is made for rugged terrain, where its four-wheel drive and low-range gearing would be most useful.

As for the engine, it comes in two options—a 281 bhp 3.6-lite V6 petrol and a 197 bhp 2.8-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel. You would want the diesel, of course, since it has 1,600 rpm of torque compared to the gasoline’s 4,300 rpm. This would come into play when you have hills to climb.

All of these would total to a price tag of £32,000 for the Jeep Wrangler 75th Anniversary Edition.

Contact Details

Personnel

As a website which offers news and reviews on the car industry, we rely entirely on the quality of people that create this website. The team at reviewitonline is comprised of editors, bloggers, technical experts and reviewers with a passion for cars.